Origins of the Fujima Style

The Fujima Style (藤間流) is a renowned school of classical Japanese dance established during the Hoei era (1704-1715). It holds a prominent place in Kabuki choreography. Until his passing in 1986, Fujima Shusai was recognized as the highest-ranking male disciple, second only to the Iemoto, Fujima Kan’emon IV, the headmaster of the school.

Japanese Classical Dance in Chicago

Japanese Classical Dance began to flourish in Chicago with the arrival of Wakayagi Shiyu Kai in 1962. Their presence, as a pillar of Japanese culture, helped foster a supportive environment for the art form. This foundation enabled Fujima Shunojo to carry forward the tradition in the Midwest by founding his own school in Chicago in 1976.

Leadership and Legacy

Fujima Shunojo (藤間 秀之丞), who received his professional name from Fujima Shusai (藤間 秀斎), instructed in Tokyo prior to founding his own dance troupe in Chicago. He continued to teach and remained actively involved through performances, instruction, and mentorship until his passing on April 6, 2024.

Community Engagement and Collaboration

For over 49 years, the Fujima Ryu of Chicago (藤間流シカゴ) has been an enduring presence in the Japanese American community, performing and supporting numerous local events. For more than 20 years, Asian Improv Arts Midwest served as a primary collaborator, helping to produce many of the group’s major cultural presentations. Eventually, Fujima Ryu of Chicago became one of three traditional cultural arts programs within Asian Improv Arts Midwest. The group has held an annual student recital for the past 49 years, providing a platform for Japanese Classical Dance (日本舞踊).

Renewal and Commitment: The Birth of Shubukai

In October 2016, the dance troupe celebrated both its 40th anniversary and the inaugural performance of its newest grandmaster, Fujima Yoshinojo (藤間 淑之丞). At this time, the group reaffirmed its mission and introduced a new identity: SHUBUKAI (秀舞会).

Role in the Community and Cultural Preservation

Now known as Shubukai, the group has been a leading representative of Japanese Classical Dance in Chicago’s Japanese American community for nearly five decades. Shubukai’s prominent role is due to the efforts of earlier cultural leaders in Chicago. Following World War II, Japanese cultural identity in the Midwest was at risk of becoming fragmented. The establishment of Buddhist temples provided a sanctuary for traditions and served as a foundation for the community to rediscover and protect their heritage.

The continuation of Japanese cultural practices in the Midwest was made possible by individuals such as Joyce Kubose, who promoted the tea ceremony, and Wakayagi Shiyu, who taught classical dance. Fujima Shunojo and the legacy of Shubukai continue this tradition. Today, Shubukai works closely with other traditional groups, such as Tsukasa Taiko and Toyoakimoto Shamisen, to incorporate core aesthetics into contemporary Japanese cultural performances.

Performance Style and Arts Education

Shubukai’s performances are rooted in classical and neo-classical styles, reflected in music and costuming. A hallmark of their shows is the hikinuki, a dramatic quick-change of costume executed on stage. This signature element highlights the troupe’s innovation and artistry. Through educational outreach and community performances, Shubukai has played a significant role in raising cultural awareness within the Japanese American community, Chicago, and the greater Chicagoland area.

Ongoing Mission

Shubukai presents cultural arts and educational programs throughout Chicago, the Midwest, and the West Coast. It remains dedicated to upholding the traditions of Japanese Classical Dance as a vital part of the Asian American Cultural Arts community.